Monette Eagan is as sharp as ever. The 100 y.o. loves life, as she put it. Which I think is the secret to her longevity.
She was very calm, pleasant and thoughtful throughout our entire interview. I doubt she’s quick to anger- another trait many centenarians possess.
She told me stories about events that transpired almost a century ago- the cake contest she entered and won when she was 12 years old. The judges didn't believe she made the angel food cake herself, and she had to prove it by having her parents vouch for her.
She remembers a joy ride with her family in a Ford car that her father rented before every family had a car. They had a horse named "Old Blind Sally," which was their mode of transportation.
During my time so far at the Citizen I’ve interviewed and met several 100-year-old women. It’s always women who live that long. They all say they never smoke and only occasionally drink alcohol, if ever. They always go to church and have a strong faith in God.
None of the woman eat a particular diet, or go to great lengths to make certain they eat all their vegetables. Monette Eagan is a thin woman who enjoys life, her family, friends and an egg or two everyday. She eats small portions, she said.
After these interviews I always think “Note to self: Family, friends and happiness above all, and moderation with food.”
Being calm through life’s difficult times is another factor that I believe helps these woman live longer.
Eagan, and the past women I’ve interviewed, didn’t have perfect lives. They had good lives, but ones with hardships too.
Eagan’s son died when he was four years old. She later had a daughter, but at the time he was her only child. Eagan understandably said that was the most difficult time in her life. It takes an imperturbable person to get through a tragedy like that, and come out exceptionally optimistic about life.
Meeting Eagan for two hours one day was enough to convince me that being calm- a difficult trait for a reporter to master- is essential for longevity.
At 100 y.o., Eagan's mind is as sharp as a tack and filled with memories of her past.
Monette Eagan is an inspiration to me because of her immense passion for life. She knows what’s important in life- friends, family and fried eggs.
Read the article about Monette in the Citizen.
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